Coin Overview

Silver drachm of Balash (Vālaxš) struck between AD 484 and 488.
This coin represents the short and transitional reign of Balash following the rule of Peroz I. The design preserves the traditional Sasanian fire altar motif, symbolizing divine legitimacy and continuity of Zoroastrian faith. Despite the brevity of his rule, issues of Balash maintain fine portrait detail and clear altar composition, characteristic of late Sasanian artistry.

• Kingdom: Sasanian Kingdom
• King / Ruler: Balash (Vālaxš)
• Year: AD 484 to 488
• Denomination: Drachm
• Composition: Silver
• Weight: 3.62 g
• Diameter: 27.45 mm
• Orientation: 3 h
• Note: Evidence of repair visible at lower left, where a small fragment was reattached with adhesive.

Obverse Description

• Bust right wearing mural crown with korymbos set on crescent.
• Ribbon on left shoulder, flames rising on right side.
• Border of pellets around.

Reverse Description

• Fire altar with ribbons and head of Balash right on shaft.
• Flanked by two attendants standing left and right.
• Star and crescent symbols flanking flames above.